I also don't take meds, unless I am under a lot of stress. I was med free for 6 years, till my dad almost died, and then I took Clonazepam for 2 days.

My question to Ak, is - if you don't take meds, how are you going to control your bipolar? I also have very bad experiences from hospitals and meds side effects. But I found a book on some very practical things I could do, and I have been very consistent and that is the reason I am able to stay off meds.

I exercise hard daily. I play flute for fun and relaxation. I eat organic and whole grain foods. I take Omega Oils which help the brain. I have a good relationship with God in Jesus Christ. I have a loving family and friends who support me and help me. I also mood track and track what I am doing daily.

It isn't on the computer, just some spread sheets, and I am able to keep the symptoms mostly under control. BUT if things got bad, I would not hesitate to take meds. I get SAD in winter, and take a bit of Wellbutrin (a very tiny bit or I would go manic) to take the edges off the depression. This summer has been a hard one, but I am going back to basics, and I'm feeling normal - which is usually slightly hypomanic.

Just some hints for anyone who wants to try and cut down their meds. But do it with your pdoc, and always have some back up meds, if things go too high or low. And if you have tried it and it does not work, I think we should be glad we have meds, or we would all be in asylums, like in the old days.